This week’s reading was a lot about history and how some sects and schools of thought came to be. It was difficult for me to understand, much like the history section of our last book.
However, I was really struck by the differences of Hinayana (Theravada) and Mahayana in the reading this week. Specifically the pages of 31-33 (in my edition of “Mahayana Buddhism” by Beatrice Lane Suzuki). It was a bit confusing to read in the form of a book, so I made a chart to highlight the differences.
I think I take a little from each side. I enjoy the realistic outlook of Hinayana, but I like the altruism of Mahayana. I like the belief that Buddha was just a guy in Hinayana, but I like that his teachings can be implemented outside of monasticism in Mahayana. I like viewing Buddhism as more of a code of ethics as Hinayana does, but I also like the concept of helping others achieving the ideal state as Mahayana supports. I think much can be learned from both sides. It would be foolish to hear only one side of the Buddhist story, because you might miss out on a more full understanding and a way of thinking that would click better with you.